Business Mum's Journal Edition 6: Kate

the

Business

MUM’S JOURNAL www.businessmumsjournal.com | No. 006 The free magazine for Mumpreneurs

KATE GARRAWAY!

Central Edition

Supported by mothercare

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Fabulous Mum-Owned businesses inside

Mum, TV presenter and now business woman; interview inside

AWARDS: Business Mums recognised at the 3rd annual awards ceremony

FEATURE

TOP 100 UK Mumpreneurs Who’s made the list? Find out inside

Secrets of wellbeing for working mums

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OF THE BEST

HOW-TO The start your own business guide

For pregnancy and new mums!

mumsclub.co.uk 1

Unique & fabulous for mums in business!

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Editor: Jane Hopkins Advertising & Editorial: admin@mumsclub.co.uk Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Neither the editor, nor The Business Mum’s Journal officially endorses any advertising material included within this publication.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without prior permission of the publisher.

Hello and Welcome!

Wow what an edition, in fact what a few months it’s been since the last! MumsClub HQ has been simply rocking with everything we have going on. We’re particularly excited about the Business and Baby show in July, which we will report on in the next issue, but I hope you can make it – I do enjoy meeting new mums in business!

I must say that since starting mumsclub back in 2007, the whole mumpreneur movement is really taking shape. Support that’s out there is quite amazing and I hope you’re a part of it! If you’re not then get on twitter & facebook, follow and tweet us and I’ll put you in touch with other mums. @mumsclub and www.facebook.com/mumsclub Did you know that this issue marks the Business Mum’s Journal’s third birthday?

We’ve been going for three whole years now, so let me say a big thank you to everyone who has supported us, from our advertisers, contributors, the fabulous Mothercare and of course our regional editors who help the Journal to grow.

So to mark this 3rd birthday, over the past few months I have had my scouts out trawling the internet, the forums, the twittersphere, and the press looking for mums who have made a mark in some way on our mumpreneur revolution. This has created the top 100 list which we are now pleased to announce. I do hope you’re on there, but as there’s only space for 100, we did have to make some tough decisions. There’s always next year...

So back to this issue, it has been ably co-edited by the lovely Allison Pinney in Cambridge. Alison is a major supporter of mums in business in the Cambridge area, if you’re local to her you can hear her on the radio fairly regularly! She is quite fabulous and you’ll read more about her inside. So thank you Alison, it’s been fun hasn’t it! :0)

Just a reminder before I sign off, please do take part in our national census, the data will be incredibly helpful in our ongoing quest to raise the profile of the UK’s Mumpreneurs, it is a group effort and I very much appreciate your support. Do keep using the forums, networking is the key to your success so take advantage.

Take care, wishing you every business success Jane & Alison

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CONTENTS

www.mumsclub.co.uk - www.mumsclub.co.uk/census

06-07. Interview: Kate Garraway; TV presenter and mumpreneur 10-11. Six of the best...

For pregnancy and new mums 12-13. Feature : How to start your own business

Photo: www.sianrobertsonphotography.com

16-17. Mumpreneur Watch!

18-21. The Business Mum Awards 24-25. Secrets of wellbeing for working mums 28-29. The UK’s Top 100 Mumpreneurs

Keep up to date with the UK’s mumpreneur news as it happens by joining 3 our mailing list, at www.mumsclub.co.uk

Business Directory

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DESIGNER CLOTHES & TOYS FOR CHILDREN

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GIFTS FOR MUMS, DADS, BABIES & GRANDPARENTS www.cckb.co.uk - info@cckb.co.uk www.facebook.com/CCKB.fanpage Tel: 07834 538 611 BusinessMumsJournal.com - Be your own Boss

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An attractive accessory for mum & teething relief for baby... ...the latest must-have for mums.

Made of similar materials to other teethers it is non toxic and baby safe, and tough enough to withstand the dishwasher & sterilizer!

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In a variety of stylish, fashionable colours, it’s no wonder they are a hit with celebs such as Denise van Outen.

Ranging from just £10 £12.50 these are a real bargain offering a unique & thoughtful gift that every new mum will appreciate.

www.gumigem.co.uk Join the world of

Teacher Training Packages

Mention this add for 5% saving louise@babysigningmummy.com 5

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Running in 4 Locations in 2011

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Cover Feature: Kate Garraway, from tv to businessmum

Meet Kate....

We all know Kate Garraway from tv, yes she’s the entertainment editor on Daybreak, the one who jets off to the Oscars in Hollywood, to Paris to interview Johnny Depp, wow it’s a tough life. Being both a mum of two, a wife and early morning tv presenter who is up at 3am every day, the thought of starting a business really should have scared her off but no, Kate’s determination and self belief ensured her business became more than just another start up.

Jane Hopkins, founder of mumsclub investigates.

I immediately warmed to Kate with her beaming smile when I met her in her London offices. I was struck by how down to earth she was; so friendly and open as we sat in the snug chatting over tea & biscuits, about our lives as mums in business. Here’s a snapshot into what Kate’s life is all about.

So Kate, Goodypass.com is your new baby, can you tell us where the idea came from? And how do you juggle it all with your tv job and being a mum?

The idea was inspired by me being on tv. As my profile has increased since I began in television, so have the advantages to a growing profile. It means I get lots of lovely perks, discounts and goodies sent to me. I’ve always considered myself to be in a privileged position to have these stowed upon me, especially when I look back to my days as a junior reporter when I had to pay full price for things but couldn’t afford it!

I’d been wanting to set up in business for a while and so it occurred to me that that business

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could be to collect these perks and discounts and promote them all under one roof, ready to pass on to a member base, after all who doesn’t love discounts?

Being a mum, does make it harder but also more rewarding. I love my job, I love being a mum and I love running a business. I have a pretty hands on husband and I am able to pick the kids up after school, so with a little juggling here and there we make it work and generally manage to strike the balance.

Having the support at home is hugely important for me.

You’re living a corporate life first thing, by lunch time you’re a business woman so before you

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become a mum at tea time, how do your roles compare?

Strangely enough there are similarities. As a tv presenter my job is to engage with the viewers and keep them watching the show, to do that I need to know my audience and know what they want to watch, and it’s the same as being in business. It’s all about marketing – knowing my market and ensuring the service is, and remains to be, what customers want by providing a constant stream of changing products to keep our member’s interest. And just like being a mum, I know what my kids want...they tell me often enough.

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Cover Feature: Kate Garraway, from tv to businessmum them will always be there. It a great situation all round; the product owner gets lots of sales and PR, and So as well as through our fabulous our members get fabulous mumsclub mums, how else do you discounts at amazing products, and market the website? And what tips our database of contented shoppers continues to grow. We can you pass on to fledgling will be working with mumsclub businesses?

Firstly we have a marketing and PR soon to develop one aspect of goodypass which we are all looking team who keep our press releases out there but also we recognise the forward to, details of that will be use of celebrity. It has worked well released in good time. In the meantime we will be continuing to in that it has been very appealing pass on more of our fabulous for a number of celebrities to So let’s go back a moment, you become involved because they are celebrity treats on to our member came up with the Goodypass idea, both able to build a business for list. how did you fund the venture? themselves but at the same time For more information on Kate’s Was it straightforward or business and how to sign up to are genuinely giving a valuable challenging? receive new discount alerts go to service to the people who follow We initially raised funding through them. Celebrities are a great way to www.goodypass.com plus look out investment company, Kite Ventures promote your product so my advice for news from us in coming who provided seed capital to get us would be to get endorsements editions. up and running with these London where you can, you can only ask. images by newlandportraits.com offices and with a goodypass team Another good tip is to believe of sales and marketing and in your idea, research it well, administrators. We then received listen to opinions and more funding to expand which has appreciate that there is going enabled us to build a portfolio of to be a lot of hard work ahead celebrity and expert supporters so so be sure you have the time we can offer a bigger range of to see it through. benefits to goodypass members. It Where do you see goodypass was indeed challenging and going? particularly time consuming to go We are looking to grow and the investor route, I’m sure that develop the range of benefits having a profile helped greatly but I to members and provide very much understand the more opportunities, especially difficulties start up businesses for mums in their local areas. encounter, it’s a tough job being a We all love freebies and mum in business! Which is partly discounts, and the why I like to work with other mums opportunities to promote - I’m in a position to open up a new Who is your target market?

That’s easy - it’s anyone who likes a discount! Each email we send out has a selected mix of products and services which we try to make appealing to everyone, it could be anything from amazing anti ageing creams (that actually do work!) to discounts at top celebrity hairdressers, hotel deals, and ready planted and decorated Christmas trees in December and we’re always open to new ideas.

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market to them and they can bring their benefits to our goodypass members.

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Hop onto the Little lily Pad...

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www.littlelilypad.co.uk

Unique, beautiful gifts lovingly

made in the UK BusinessMumsJournal.com - Be your own Boss

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Ribbons and Curls for Party Girls A unique and memorable party experience to make all her dreams come true! Book now!

07930 501 008 Mini Makeovers — Nail Design Hair style with glitter, Dressing up clothes & accessories to transform your little girl into a real life Princess!

www.ribbonsandcurlsparty.co.uk

www.yourlittlemonkey.co.uk

A pair of socks turned into a

sock monkey!

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Prices from £5 sales@yourlittlemonkey.co.uk

Baby Beautiful...

Busy Mum looking for something different?

Hand crocheted baby & toddler clothes beautifully made to order.

Jackets, tops, hats, shawls & christening gowns. babybeau@manx.net

www.baby-beautiful.net

If your child can walk they can ride a Strider PreBike™

If your child can walk they can ride a Strider PreBike™ For children, aged 1 – 5+.

Super -light at 3.2 K.g.

Easy to control, fully adjustable, seat post extension available for taller kids Integral Footrest

Free UK delivery and a free Strider bell.

Enter "mumsrock" on checkout to receive £4 off helmet packages (until 01/10/11).

Strider Bike UK

www.learningearly.co.uk 01926 339107 9

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• Teaches balance & co-ordination on TWO wheels • Develops glittering confidence • Your child will NEVER NEED Stabilisers!

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of the best...

As ever, we have scoured the mumpreneur network for six of the best products or sevices, so you don’t have to.

This issue, we have found six of the best for…

Pregnancy & your new baby! … Bumpalicious Maternity Clothes Bumpalicious Maternity want you to love being pregnant, want you to embrace your new shape; to look great, to feel great, to be stunning and sexy!

They appreciate that today's maternity style is all about fashion and that you want to look and feel fabulous at such an important time. Be beautifully pregnant. Be Bumpalicious! www.bumpaliciousmaternity.co.uk

… Hypnobirthing HypnoBirthing® is a complete antenatal programme that teaches couples how to use self-hypnosis, relaxation and breathing techniques for a calmer , more comfortable birth.

HypnoBirthing® is suitable for all types of birth whether you are planning a hospital , birth centre or home birth. The skills you’ll learn can be applied in all birthing environments. www.hypnobirthingbirmingham.co.uk

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… New Baby Sock Monkeys Your Little Monkey is run by Willingham based mum of 4, Alison Pinney who handmakes all the monkeys from a pair of socks and has since added cats and dogs to the product list.

Want something a little different for dad for Fathers Day? Alison can add your favourite football team's patch.

Prices for monkeys start at just £5 for a baby monkey and rise to £15 for a very large monkey.

Contact Alison on sales@yourlittlemonkey.co.uk for further details.

…Tummy Butter from the Lily Pad What do most mums to be fear aside from labour? Stretch marks!!

Superbly moisturising combination of rich & creamy organic shea butter with the additional rehydrating qualities of vitamin rich Borage and rosehip oil added with Vitamin E & helps to maintain skin elasticity being fantastic for stretch marks & scarring. 100% Organic & Chemical Free Tummy Butter - £15.00 www.littlelilypad.co.uk

… Keepsake Critters Cuddly creatures made from your memories.

The Critters are handmade by Ruth Douglas in her studio in Devon.

These handmade heirlooms are fantastic for keeping your memories alive and with you every day.

Prices for Keepsake Critters start at £25 www.keepsakecritters.co.uk

… GumiGem We love GumiGem, an attractive accessory for the mums and a teething relief for babies, it’s the latest must-have for mums and no wonder they‘re a hit with celebs such as Denise van Outen.

Ranging from £10-£12.50 www.gumigem.co.uk

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11 Free work at home advice, support, and online networking - MumsClub.co.uk

How to: Start your own business There are a million and one different reasons for starting your own business. But whether you’ve dreamt up a brand new product or just can’t face going back to your job after maternity leave, knowing where to start can be a minefield. So we asked the experts to tell us how they did it...

WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT TO DO? Mum of two Jennifer Robertson, 37, lives in Camden and runs www.scampbabygifts.co.uk.

the business to work around the family, the hours you work, and the time you have with the children.

Then make sure you prioritise things accordingly so that you get satisfaction both at work and at home.”

For many self-employed mums work has to fit around family commitments, which can limit the time you have to get things done.

For Jennifer, the ability to focus is critical. “Don’t let domestic duties distract you during valuable working hours,” she advises.

Alison says: “Start by sounding out a few people about whether your idea has legs – not necessarily those closest to you, as you need people to be honest. Think about whether you have the time and skills required for your business, and whether this is the right time in your life for it.”Alison recommends talking to organisations like Business Link who offer free courses for start-ups, and says early market research is vital to avoid costly mistakes. Canvass friends-offriends and use forums like Mumsclub for valuable feedback on your business idea.

Perhaps most important of all, remember that being your own boss should make you happy - at least some of the time. “You can work She recommends thinking carefully long hours and face a constant about what you want to achieve juggling act but remember you are from running your own business. doing it for yourself - so only go for “Is it the magical work/life balance? a business idea if you think you will Being your own boss? Making a lot really enjoy the challenge - and of money or just some extra pocket then don't look back.” And if you money?” Whatever your motive, make mistakes, as you invariably Jennifer says knowing the answer will, Jennifer’s golden rule is to to that question helps manage your bounce back from them. “Learn expectations - and keep you from mistakes, adapt, and then focused as your business grows. move on,” she says.

“Start off with a detailed business plan so you have objectives and timelines, and solid goals to aim for,” Jennifer says. But she adds that personal planning is just as important as business planning.

“Carefully consider how you want

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DO YOUR HOMEWORK Alison Pinto, 44, is a mum of two from Buckinghamshire. She launched Menus4Mums menus4mums.co.uk, a family meal plan website based on supermarket bargains, in 2009.

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Though exciting, Alison cautions that the early steps on the way to starting a business can be chaotic.

“You often have to start on one issue before you have the final answers you need from something else – you just have to make

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How to: Start your own business calculated assumptions and accept that everything won’t be 100% perfect on initial launch,” Alison says. To give yourself time to polish those imperfections, she recommends piloting your business for three months.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO TAKE RISKS Nikki Hesford is managing director of Miss Fit UK, a group of brands she set up three years ago. nikkihesford.co.uk She’s also a business speaker and mentor, and will headline at BStartUp in London in May (www.bstartup.com). A single mum, she lives in Lancaster with her son.

“Remember with a new business a pound you don’t spend is a pound you've been relieved of the obligation of earning,” she says.

“Do you need a £3000 website initially? Do you need costly membership to a networking club, or to travel across the country for a meeting that could be done on the phone?”

Nikki adds that women are typically risk averse and therefore less likely than men to go bankrupt, but also far less likely to achieve high growth success. “But remember that you might have to

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take calculated risks, depending on what you want to achieve.”

Jo Gifford, 34, runs Cherry Sorbet Creative (www.cherrysorbet.co.uk) covering design, trends and editorial for the beauty and lifestyle industries.

She’s also mum to twin girls, aged 20 months. Jo loves the flexibility that comes from being a selfemployed mum, and says being bold and prepared for the unexpected is important. “Don’t apologise for having your family as a priority - that’s the backbone to juggling it

all as a mumpreneur,” she says.

“But try to have some back-up plans for extra childcare or outsourcing work for the times when your workload increases.”

ABOVE ALL, BE HAPPY Helen Lindop, 38, is a mum of two, the owner of businessplusbaby.com and co-author of Start a Family friendly Business.

She says the old adage innovate, don’t replicate is a good mantra for mumpreneurs. “Don't assume that you have to invent a product and bring it to market,” she says. “Small service businesses like graphic design, web design, interior design, virtual assistance, PR, marketing or even gardening are easier to set up, will earn you an income faster, and need very little investment to get started.”

Like Jennifer, Helen believes that your own enjoyment should be at the heart of your business idea. “Starting a business is hard work, and fitting it around a family is even trickier. Unless you really care about what you do you'll probably run out of steam before too long.”

To avoid that, start by asking yourself the million dollar question that we started with: What is it that you really want to do?

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www.naturallycoolkids.com

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We like to keep an eye (or two) on what mum-owned businesses out there are doing, and these are the likely suspects for this issue…

Amanda Rees struggled to find fashionable and stylish maternity wear that she could afford during both of her pregnancies.

She wanted to have the designer maternity wear look that really showed off her bump but just couldn't find anywhere local to her that supplied this.

It has been sometime in the planning but Amanda has recently launched Bumpalicious Maternity in Birmingham to fill that gap.

Bumpalicious Maternity is an online maternity wear boutique that sells the very best in maternity and nursing wear at sensible prices. Amanda has even launched her own range of maternity dresses, "I really want mums-to-be who don't have earth shattering

Lara Kerr (Ragged Rascals) Meet Lara Kerr, she’s 35, married with two young children, ages 5 and 3. Her life consists of looking after her children, working and running marathons...

It was after the birth of her second daughter in 2007 when she decided to start her own company. Ragged Rascals is a mobile Softplay company that provide weekly playgroup sessions at the Great Shelford Rugby Club, Cambridge for parents and their children up to the age of 4 years old.

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budgets to be able to buy the best maternity clothing so that they feel gorgeous and glamorous at such a special time."

Bumpalicious Maternity offers a "try at home" service where Amanda will visit you at your home with a selection of clothing for you to try on, "Sometimes people are put off from buying online as they cannot try the item on before buying it. I really want to make it much more personal and risk free." Amanda believes that bumps are to be shown off and that we should all be Beautifully Pregnant! www.bumpaliciousmaternity.co.uk

It also specialises in private hire for children's parties and other playgroups.

Lara finds it particularly encouraging that she hardly advertises, she puts its success down to word of mouth; “I have been receiving fantastic feedback about the great atmosphere my sessions create and how clean and well maintained my equipment

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is. I feel all this hard work is starting to pay off!” I love my job, I love the social aspect of it, talking and getting to know the parents and their children and I enjoy the fact all my customers enjoy their time at Ragged Rascals. What I do know is that I would not choose to work for anyone else as I find being my own boss both challenging and fulfilling!

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Jo Evans (Emerald Frog Marketing)

greener alternatives and reducing waste in Jo Evans is co-owner of Emerald Frog Marketing. marketing communications.

Specialising in planning, creating and delivering Jo is also a proud mum to 9 month old baby creative marketing campaigns, Emerald Frog Millie and says “Setting up Emerald Frog Marketing have worked with clients from sole Marketing doesn’t only give me the opportunity traders and start-ups through to large private do what I am most sector companies and local authorities. passionate about, Being a supporter of all things green (hence the marketing, but also give the space to do what I name) they try to make their love being most - a marketing solutions as mum”. environmentally friendly as possible – by recommending

Emma Furness Mums About Food was born just over 3 years ago. We began running hands on cookery sessions in toddler groups and have since expanded to running them in pre schools, schools and children’s centres working with both children and adults. We have written a successful accredited course for adults and we won the entrepeneur of the year Ely Standard Business award in 2009.

Lee McCormack is a mum of two and is passionate about helping couples have better birth experiences.

Lee qualified as clinical hypnotherapist with the LCCH and has now chosen to specialise in pregnancy and childbirth.

She is licensed as a certified

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www.emeraldfrog.co.uk

Now with funding issues hitting us hard we are thinking about ways to diversify , we will be offering confidence building classes, life coaching and health training services.

We have a huge amount of passion for keeping our dream alive and we plan to continue to build our successful little business for many years to come!

HypnoBirthing practioner and is affiliated with the HypnoBirthing institute USA .

She is one of the most experienced teachers in the West Midlands having taught the method since 2006.

Lee is currently undertaking a Diploma in Antenatal

Education with the University of Bedfordshire and will teach antenatal classes for the NCT. "I believe that pregnancy and birth are normal, but very special life events. My aim is to support women and their partners to have an empowering and fulfilling birth experience ." www.hypnobirthingbirmingham.co.uk

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The Business Mum Awards

The UK’s top Mumpreneurs awarded in the 3rd annual awards ceremony Almost 200 nominations were whittled down to a shortlist, the shortlist underwent public voting and then our judges took over and eventually the 6 award winners and 2 top secret wildcard winners were presented with the most wanted award in the mumpreneur world.

The finalists were invited to enjoy a So with the complimentary three course meal finalists ready, at the Holiday Inn, in Solihull. after lunch the awards began.

The day was introduced by Jane Hopkins, the founder of mumsclub Antonia Chitty, who in 2008 launched the very first the winner of business mum awards. A challenge the inspirational Business mum was set straight off, and the room of the Year 2009, announced the jumped to life in a bid to find the answers to win a fabulous prize of a finalists and read a biography of the winners as they collected their rose bush basket supplied by The awards and prizes...

Gluttonous gardener.

Prize allocation Business mum of the year prize A family break at Butlin’s new £20m Ocean Hotel & Spa resort in Bognor Regis. To ensure that mum gets a real treat she was given a spa experience, including sauna, steam room, hydro spa and even the Snow Cave, plus a full body massage. butlins.com/spa

Jane then introduced a very special guest; her own life coach Lisa Baker. Jane asked Lisa to provide a snapshot of, and pass on some of the powerful techniques she had learned from her time with Lisa.

Read Lisa’s account later...

The Best start up award prize The winner of this award was given the opportunity to learn a new language, at home with www.RosettaStone.co.uk. The program's methodology uses

technology to recreate the natural, intuitive languagelearning process we all experience as children learning our first language.

High Growth award prize Two family tickets to Dinosaurs Unleashed at The O2 and a night at a Premier Inn for the winners Amazing specially created elements are just some of the many fun-packed experiences to be uncovered at Dinosaurs Unleashed. www.dinosaursunleashed.co.uk www.premierinn.com/en/ Resilience award prize Micro Scooters for all the family. A must for every parent of young children, discovered by Anna Gibson who, with the help of her friend Philippa Gogarty brought them to a wider market. They continue to source quality toys and outdoor activities that children enjoy. www.micro-scooters.co.uk Use of Media award prize 12 months MumsClub premium membership - Gluttonous gardener Rose Bush and editorial in Prima Baby magazine and www.babyexpert.com Mumpreneur Advocate prize Mentoring Session with business expert and mumpreneur guide Antonia Chitty, a bundle of Business Books and a lifetime membership of Become a Mumpreneur. www.FamilyFriendlyWorking.co.uk

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The Business Mum Awards Prizes for all winners A Jabra Bluetooth (for all finalists!)- essential for keeping in touch, on the go and hands free!

A family day at the Museum of London Docklands and lunch at www.rumandsugar.co.uk PlayMais the award winning craft sensation was given to everyone as well as extra large boxes for the winners. www.topbananatoys.co.uk A Powermat & receiver - an ideal gadget for a busy working mum, it eliminates the need for phone chargers by streamlining everything down onto one mat.

A months Supply of Garofalo pasta. A favourite with Italians, Garofalo already has a loyal UK following. www.pastagarofalo.it Benjoy children’s food hampers incorporate 100% natural ingredients and essential nutrients commonly lacking in young children¹s diets. www.benjoy.co.uk 80’s pop legends, Heaven 17 DVD sets. A live DVD of their hometown performance in Sheffield from 2010 and a documentary revealing the history of the band. heaven17.com For award winners and competition prizes: Wonderful alternatives to flowers; Rose Boxes and Moroccan Mint Tea Crates. Beautiful gifts that come in hand packed Gluttonous Gardener wooden crates. glut.co.uk

And the goodie bags! £15 vouchers to spend with Jo Jo Maman Bebe jojomamanbebe.co.uk and Elias Superwipes for first aid removal for food and drink stains www.eliasproducts.com.

Special thanks to Donna Pinnell - Event Organiser extraordinaire & owner of Little Lily Pad gift boutique | Lisa Baker - Hassled to Happy Mum Life coach | Jean Maunds - Just Ask Jean! |Kelly from SpaKels Cupcakes | The Cake Lady Chatteris - Cake pops | Happy Little Monsters - Personalised chocolates And our fabulous photographer www.SianRobertsonPhotography.com

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Getting in the RIGHT zone

by Lisa Baker What an inspiring day I had at the MumsClub Awards, where I was delighted to be surrounded by so many women, all of us with the same passion for running our own business.

The energetic atmosphere set the tone nicely for my workshop. I talked to the attendees about how setting goals for your business can either boost or drain your confidence, depending on the zone you are in when you set them, how realistic they are, and also how being in the wrong zone can stop you from achieving those goals altogether.

In an interactive exercise, (the “Comfort Zone” game), as a group we shared the feelings we experience depending on the zone were in, and how changing the rules ‘the goals’ can ultimately boost our confidence.

Those in the comfort zone felt bored, calm and safe, those in the panic zone felt paralysed, afraid and overwhelmed. However, those that found themselves in the stretch zone felt excited, motivated and passionate. Being in the comfort or panic zone can just takes you further away from achieving your goal.

Do you know what zone you are in when you think about your business or the goals you have set yourself?

To play the “Comfort Zone” game and learn how to move into the right zone, get in touch with Lisa on 01827 269064 or visit www.hassledtohappycoaching.co.uk

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The Business Mum Awards

And the winners are...

Business Mum of the year Cara Sayer - SnoozeShade The pram and buggy blackout blind – helping babies sleep on the go.

Cara is often seen supporting other mums as well as building her own business and successful brand which takes up a great deal of her time in itself. As well as very high quality nominations, Cara was shown to be an incredibly popular choice with the public voting.

Business Mum of the year runners up Sarah Wickins & Jo Ellis buggysnuggle Supply's over 300 UK stores with the Buggysnuggle original funky footmuff, & other nursery products, working from 2 offices almost 300miles apart. They keep several small factories in work & have a very pro-European ethos.

Victoria Dixon - Enhance-Me See later entry.

Best start up winner Erica Douglas - ACE Inspire Erica started by developing the free mum blogger ecourse which trained 500 in its first year.

She then developed a more advanced course to enable any business owner to learn about social media. She started her own business after being forced to give up a part time job due to considerable health problems.

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Best Start up runners up Amanda Waring - Mama Jewels Makes mummy friendly jewellery which can be pulled, tugged and sterilised so perfect when you still want to look glamorous whilst looking after a little one.

Amanda Charteris Gift Wrapped & Gorgeous An ecommerce company who help market & promote creative designer makers, artisans and small gift companies based in the UK.

High growth award winner Gill Hayward & Kellie Forbes - Yuu World YUUbag is an activity bag like no other. With a desk, colouring pad, magnetic game and space for iPods and DSs, it's the coolest backpack around. Their high growth in a short period of time mixed with an innovative approach to marketing was amongst the reasons Yuu bags won the high growth award.

High growth runners up Keira O' Mara - Mamascarf The discreet & supportive breastfeeding scarf invented by Keira O'Mara. Sells both online & to retail customers internationally, inc. Tesco, Boots and Jojo Maman Bebe.

Solvej Biddle - Content & Calm Dragons Den survivor Solvej Biddle designs & manufactures products that make being out & about with babies & young children easier for parents & more fun/ peaceful for children.

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The Business Mum Awards Mumpreneur Advocate winner Alison Pinney - Your Little Monkey Alison makes & sells Sock Monkeys by hand. She also makes mascots for businesses, & monkeys as gifts. In addition to this Alison has been running the Cambridge branch of the MumsClub networking group since April 2010 and also hosted the first Cambridge Business Mum’s conference.

Mumpreneur Advocate runners up Louise Prunty Caledonian Therapy Academy The company was originally known as Louise's Therapy & offered treatments and selected Holistic training but now has a full range of beauty & holistic training.

Tina Bolton Blue hedgehog photography Tina has run and continues to run a successful pregnancy and family portraiture business since 2003 & has now set up and is running a busy new photography business.

Resilience Award winner Gemma Johnson - BabeeCard

Best Use of Media Award winner Keira O’Mara - Mamascarf This award was based purely on points scoring - points for every media mention in the past 12 months. After winning this award for two years running we now consider Keira O'Mara as the one to beat. She has a clear eye on marketing her own business and never misses an opportunity. A great example, and a fabulous product.

Best Use of Media Award runners up Victoria Dixon - Enhance-Me Victoria’s remote location makes online networking and marketing even more important, her hard work paid off with the amount of points she collated.

Joanne Dewberry - Charlie-Moos A great online networker who knows how to make the most of PR and maximising marketing opportunities that come her way.

Special Achievement award Michelle Wall

Michelle Wall, aka shellibobbins was BaBeeCard is a financial services awarded this top secret on the grounds of company that specialising in prepaid card the sheer determination she has shown products. She has faced several setbacks after an accident at the age of two meant including setting up the business when Shelly would need a string of hospital she was 5 months pregnant with her first treatments for years to come. In the child and later battling through an past 3 years she has been made emergency c-section at the crucial time redundant 3 times but had a light bulb moment which she of launching the business. hopes will change her life. Michelle is a testament to what women in business are all about; determination, drive Resilience Award and never giving up, despite the obstacles in her path. runners up

Tracey Thomas - This lady loves thisladyloves.com promotes small businesses across the North West Area. In Dec 2010 the building where Tracey’s business was held bunt to the ground, taking her businesses with it. But she persevered to keep in touch with her members and rebuilt despite the struggles.

Martina Gomez - Crafty Candles Martina makes personalised candles made to order, including weddings, birthdays, christenings and her own weatherproof candle which is not commonly available.

Special Achievement award Victoria Dixon Victoria’s skill is her business - she can turn ordinary photos into magical scenes. She’s had more than her fair share of heartache but she hasn’t let it affect her. From her corner in the Orkney Isles, she quietly gets on with building her empire, supporting others as she goes. The judges felt that Victoria deserved special recognition partly because of the determination to over come the constraints of her remote location and her clear support for others.

For more details on the 2010 awards or how to nominate a mum you know for 2011 go to

www.businessmumawards.com 21

Free work at home advice, support, and online networking - MumsClub.co.uk

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Business Directory

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LITTLE FUNFEET Baby Leather Shoes www.littlefunfeet.co.uk

Kiddiz.co.uk The Online Kids Store

LOSE WEIGHT and TONE YOUR ENTIRE BODY in less than 45 minutes with only 3 workouts per week in Cambridge.

www.cambridgebootcamps.co.uk

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Stockists of Nemesis Now Fairy and Dragon collectable Gothic figurines & Alchemy Gothic jewellery sales@gothiclegends.co.uk

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www.gothiclegends.co.uk

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Secrets of wellbeing for working mums Wellbeing is an elusive concept at the best of times but for busy working mums it can a pipe-dream - yet another thing you don’t have time to focus on. But a few simple lifestyle tweaks can do wonders for your wellbeing, and impact positively on other areas of your business and family life.

We asked a range of working mums to share the secrets of their success when it comes to wellbeing...

Mum of three Antonia Chitty runs familyfriendlyworking.co.uk, a website for working parents.

She says changing your work pattern can have a huge impact your wellbeing. “If you’re finding it a struggle to fit in family life, work, and time for you, think

chances of having your request for flexible working granted, Antonia recommends being ready to show that you’ve thought about how this will work for the business. “You’ll need to explain the possible benefits to your boss, such as savings on staff costs during less busy periods at work,” she says.

Antonia also advocates making the most of the breaks you’re allocated at work. “Don’t waste your lunch break on grocery shopping or paying bills - use it to have a swim, meet a friend or get your nails done.”

Chetna Parmar, 40, is a mum of two who runs an online retail business (bluelotuscakes.co.uk) from her home in Leicester.

Healthy eating boosts her wellbeing, with positive repercussions on her work.

about asking to work more flexibly,” she says. “Under the Employment Act (2002) you have the right to ask for flexible work if you are the parent of a child under 18 or have parental responsibility. You can ask to change the hours or the times you work, or request to work from home for all or part of the week.” To maximise your 24

BusinessMumsJournal.com - Be your own Boss

“Working from home makes it all too easy to pop in and out of the kitchen for a biscuit or three, which leads to poor food choices throughout the day, leaving me feeling sluggish and unproductive,” Chetna explains.

“Instead, eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts and seeds has made a real difference in boosting my energy levels and general wellbeing. I feel more alert and tend not to have sugar cravings,” she adds. Chetna also makes time to exercise for half an hour every day, and spends twenty minutes relaxing on a massage mat.

Mum of three Holly Seddon, (www.hollyseddon.com), 31, from Kent, is a firm believer in the benefits of taking even just a few minutes for yourself every day. “I work crazy hours from home and have found that ten minutes of yoga or pilates at the end of 24

Secrets of wellbeing for working mums the day works wonders for my wellbeing. It's like a full stop at the end of the working day before you start the evening, and it's great for your body too.”

• Smart tailored trousers

“It's five nights in a beautiful house in the middle of nowhere with around 20 other people, • Good quality t-shirt style tops living, cooking, eating and writing • A skirt to suit your body shape together,” says Jo. “I see it as something to look forward to i.e. pencil or A-line On the subject of your body, that is completely selfish and what if your outward appearance • A smart / casual dress – Lisa totally about me. The first time I could do with a boost, too? Lisa loves H&M’s military dress and went to Arvon it took a little Talbot is an award-winning says Phase 8 have a perfect while to relax into the idea of not personal stylist (lisatalbot.co.uk) dress for the ‘apple’ shape. being responsible for anyone and mum of three. She says • Blazer - Easy chic for work and else, and doing something truly looking good helps us feel good, bang on trend, according to Lisa. for myself, but it was one of the and suggests sorting out your best weeks of my life. I came • Lined linen trousers - dress working wardrobe as a practical away feeling completely them up with the blazer step to boost wellbeing. rejuvenated, like I'd rediscovered “This whole look myself as a person, not just a can be mixed mummy.” around and will look great for all situations,” Lisa says. “It’s a quick but effective way of making sure you look and feel your best all the time.”

Whatever it takes to boost your wellbeing - be it a new wardrobe “A working mum’s outfit needs to Josephine Middleton, 32, is the or a writing weekend - why not say so much - I call it the author of an award-winning make some guilt-free time to Superwoman wardrobe but parenting blog, focus on you this weekend? One rather than wearing a leotard, slummysinglemummy.wordpress thing’s certain - it’s truly time the secret is going for smart, .com and a single mum who lives well spent. casual and comfortable clothes,” in Somerset with she says. “You need an array of her two outfits that have more than one daughters. She purpose. You need to be able to boosts her do the school run, go to work, wellbeing with a attend a business meeting, yearly treat - a collect your little one from residential nursery and still look fab at the creative writing end of the business day.” course with the Lisa suggests streamlining your Arvon look with the following staple Foundationtion. items for a fail-safe capsule wardrobe; 25

• Crisp white or coloured shirt

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Business Directory

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jesproofreading For peace of mind before: uploading web copy • distributing a press release • sending an article to a magazine

No job too small • Competitive rates Call Janet on 07905 373 173 or email janetestock@googlemail.com

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Tools for your business ideas!

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Consultation • Research & Development Business Plan Writing • Marketing Strategies •Start-up Packages and more Tel: 07903 500 573 ask@businessfirststeps.co.uk

www.businessfirststeps.co.uk BusinessMumsJournal.com BusinessMumsJournal.com -- Be Be your your own own Boss Boss

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YES! You can work 4 yourself Always wanted to be self-employed?

Here’s your opportunity!

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Successful ‘business-mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a managerial, supervisory, sales, marketing, recruitment or selfemployed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, please call Ghis on 07769 333483 for an informal chat.

Your own business No overheads Incredible rewards

This business is very fun & sociable as well as being flexible around family life.

To find out more please call Area Manager Claire Doré on 07917117606 or email clairedore@myarbonne.co.uk 27

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Business Directory

Arbonne is a Swiss Ultra Premium Health & Wellness company, with an exceptional business opportunity.

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Top 100 UK Business Mums

100 Mumpreneurs Since its inception in 2007, mumsclub has played an integral role in the creation, growth and rise of the mumpreneur movement in the UK. Four years on, and with thousands of mums having passed through its online gates to mumpreneurialism, on the Business Mum’s Journal 3rd birthday, the movers and shakers in this fast moving industry are recognised in the first annual top 100 list.

Not necessarily chosen for their bank balance turnover, these women are being recognised for their own roles which have impacted on the Business Mum community and have contributed towards the ÂŁ4.4billion that Mumpreneurs generate each year. These are not nominated women, they have been chosen by our top secret scouts who have been searching the forums, the twittersphere and general businessmum word on the street.

Are you listed here? This is the abridged version, a full report is on www.mumsclub.co.uk. Enjoy!

The Mumpreneur Champions

Pinney, Alison Designer of sock monkeys also runs business Women who actively support other networking group in mums in business...

Cambridgeshire, also created the Cambridge Business Mum Chitty, Antonia. A conference. yourlittlemonkey.co.uk champion of Mumpreneurs since Douglas, Erica Found an ingenious forever. Inspirational way to make money on the internet, Business Mum of 2009, now teaches others to do the same. promotes Mum owned Become a Mumpreneur / businesses in her books Littlemummy.com and websites. Always at The high profilers the forefront of the mumpreneur Mums in business who have a movement. media profile and use it well Lokman, Adriana Business advisor Garraway, Kate TV personality who and trainer. Manages and coaches made the move into the business 25 mums business club world. Recognised the networking group leaders mumpreneur community nationwide. Accredited member early on promotes other of the NFEA. www.esuda.co.uk mums businesses through Summers, Laura Promotes baby her website wearing through slings and runs a www.goodypass.com business networking group in Brady, Karren First lady of football Norwich. www.petitepoppet.co.uk and hugely successful mum in Lindop, Helen. Author and online business. Introduced to mumsclub serial networker. Promotes mum at No.10 Downing Street and has owned businesses via her website continued to inspire ever since. www.businessplusbaby.com Mone, Michelle Millionaire mum Sam Peace & Helen Woodham and founder of Underwear brand Founded the mums the boss Ultimo. Can be seen regularly on networking clubs in 2008, now have twitter promoting small businesses 5 groups nationwide and counting. via the hashtag #askmichelle www.mumstheboss.co.uk

P O T 0 0 1

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Wimhurst, Emma Effervescent and highly motivated self made millionaire mum. Continues to support and mentor mum owned businesses. Her book Boom! has assisted the growth of many successful UK Mumpreneurs Cameron, Jo Ex apprentice star and mother of one.

Now a motivational speaker, holds regular business events, and organises annual awards to recognise the achievements of women in business.

The serial networkers/ online socialites They understand the power of online networking, they are never far from a tweet and are worth following...

Pinnell, Donna Runs her online gift boutique www.littlelilypad.co.uk whilst holding down a day job, also hosts fabulous mumpreneur events and is a proficient online networker. @littlelilypadco

TOP 100

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Top 100 Business Mums Jarvis, Liz A celebrity, real life and parenting journalist with a quality blog, by her own admission she tweets, alot. http:// themumblog.com/ @lizjarvisuk Wall, Michelle Aka shellibobbins is a great online tweeter, amongst her best twitter friends are Theo Paphitis and Duncan Bannatyne. www.folksy.com/shops/ shellybobbins @shellibobbins Tyler-Scott, Alexa Mother of two beautiful girls, Lover of ridiculously high heeled shoes, Allergy free food fanatic, Juicing extraordinaire and Founder of UberMummy :) www.ubermummy.co.uk @iamubermummy

The Media Moguls Scrimegeour, Heidi A journalist who seems to always be looking for mums in business to quote or case study. A huge supporter of mums, from her position in the media and press contacts she ensures mums receive the press attention they deserve.

Rothwell, Alison Ali Rothwell is a lady who certainly knows her SEO. If you want to know anything about search engine optimisation, she is your lady and she’s always willing to pass on her advice backed up by years of training, research and experience.

Mums of notable recognition Ashworth, Caroline franchise owner – www.jittabugs.co.uk Kimber, Rebecca Website developer www.create.net Brown, Ria Graphic designer – www.riabrown.com Knight, Sadie Web designer www.glassraven.co.uk Charteris, Amanda giftwrappedandgorgeous.co.uk Waring, Amanda designer of child friendly jewellery (pictured) www.mamajewels.co.uk Marsh, Polly www.cuddledry.com Boyle, Lara

TOP 100

The mum-inventors & designers O’Mara, Keira Mum of two and creator of Mamascarf, the award winning breastfeeding scarf allowing mums to feed comfortably and discreetly in public. www.mamascarf.co.uk Jones, Rachel www.Totseat.com Mayze, Di www.buggytug.com Lister, Kerri www.tidy-trays.co.uk Gill Hayward & Kellie Forbes www.yuuworld.com Rees, Amanda www.Bumpaliciousmaternity.co.uk Matthias, Catherine www.b-natural.co.uk Sayer, Cara Mum of one & creator of SnoozeShade - a range of products to help babies get the sleep they need wherever they are.

Business Mum of the Year 2010. www.snoozeshade.com Beazley, Tilly www.theweanmachine.com

The Dragon Slayers Timperley, Naomi Director of @BLDUK & Social Media Boom, Dragons Den survivor, Biz Advisor at SIFE Salford, YENW volunteer, Speaker at School Speakers & Social Media fan! www.socialmediaboom.co.uk Henshaw, Kirsty www.worthenshaws-freedom.co.uk Biddle, Solvje www.contentandcalm.com

The Experts in their field Johnson, Gemma www.babeecard.com Bolton, Tina www.tinabolton.co.uk Baker, Lisa www.hassledtohappymums.co.uk Thewlis, Sam www.samthewlis.co.uk Rolston, Claire www.clrlaw.co.uk Sterling, Angela www.lingotot.com Bradbury, Lucie www.damselsinsuccess.co.uk Thomas, Tracey www.thisladyloves.com Huxton, Debbie www.debbiehuxton.co.uk Mackay, Jo bookingsforyou.co.uk

www.beautyandthebib.com Farnhill, Brenda www.rubyandginger.co.uk Wickins, Sarah & Ellis, Jo www.buggysnuggle.com Ellis, Jo www.buggysnuggle.com Tamlyn, Tash www.redjellykids.co.uk Adams, Pauline www.teesonline.co.uk Croft, Elaine www.starsandroses.co.uk Prunty, Louise www.ctacademy.co.uk Alison, Kirsteen yourweddingatlochlomond.co.uk Dixon, Victoria enhance-me.com Dewberry, Joanne www.charliemoos.co.uk Morris, Laura rentabuggy.co.uk Squire, Sandra bright-moon.co.uk

TOP 100 Mclaughlan, Jenny www.gumigem.co.uk

To see the full this go to www.mumsclub.co.uk and see if you’ve been nominated too...

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Business Directory

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Seriously sound Sleep and Advice for families.

Using a calm and considered approach to baby and child sleep or P.N.D, Juliet swiftly improves family relationships and can have your child sleeping through the night in as little as 3 days!

For more information call: 07982 713 736 *Confidential

www.sanitynanny.com Contribute to the UK’s national

mumpcreennseuusr Help build a national profile of UK mums in business, simply go to:

www.mumsclub.co.uk/census Business Directory

The survey will run through 2011 and your business mum profile could be chosen as on of our featured mums.

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Thank you!

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